I attended a meeting last night organised by Wandsworth Council in respect of the Galliard Homes / AFC Wimbledon application to develop Wimbledon Stadium.  I expected a vocal and passionate attendance but I also expected those with reservations to be better-informed.  Of course there will be concerns at plans of a development of this magnitude, and possibly more importantly plans to change the usage of the site, but I am amazed that people cannot put aside prejudices and at least listen to plans which might improve the local area. 

One gentleman saw fit to question the planners as to why a stadium with a capacity of 11,000 would be required when AFC Wimbledon’s average attendance was 600 and at their last game against Morecambe they had 182 fans.  This was after the audience had been informed that the average attendance at AFC Wimbledon was approximately 4,000.  It was not felt necessary to inform the gentleman that the Morecambe fixture was played in Morecambe.

One lady talked of the devastating effect that a stadium would have on local property prices.  She did not need to pause for breath to add that she felt that the plans were inadequate and that AFC Wimbledon were "all about money".  I was struck by what appeared to be brazen hypocrisy. 

I could go on but my personal opinion is that people should focus on the positive aspects of the plans.  AFC Wimbledon is a community club and those that run and support it would like nothing more than to succeed with the local community rather than in spite of it.  The club runs many coaching sessions for young children, both in and out of schools, including schools in Wandsworth, affording them not only exercise and new skills but lessons in teamwork and ethical behaviour.

 I was moved by two gentleman who spoke in favour of the scheme: one suggested how he cycles to the current ground in Norbiton, how he has no concerns at taking his daughters to games, how his daughters have benefited from playing at the club; the other suggested that those with concerns should visit the club on a matchday at its current location to experience the friendly atmosphere and to witness that number of children who can enjoy watching football in a safe and welcoming atmosphere. 

AFC Wimbledon coming home would be of great benefit to both Merton and Wandsworth.  I urge people to at least listen as to how.

John Athill

Via email